“Several senators had some concerns about the earlier substitute and this amendment shows that we all listened. We heard what those senators were saying and adjusted the amendment accordingly. This amendment can provide a path forward and can complete our work on this bill – enacting into law the help needed for those who have lost her their jobs through no fault of their own, the Medicaid assistance states need to survive and the tax cuts for American families and businesses that will help create jobs and stimulate the economy. I very much hope that when we get to the substitute amendment vote, we get the necessary votes to pass it so we can move forward on to other measures.”

Chairman Baucus offered the modified substitute amendment today after Republican objections prevented the previous proposal, which would create jobs and extend tax cuts and support programs for Americans looking for work, from moving forward on the Senate floor.